1978 Mazda 929 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 929 would be higher. Both 1978 Mazda 929 and 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 are equipped with a 1,970 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 929. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1978 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 929 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 929. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 929 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 929 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2600 mm |
